Fresh from the success of the first series of Disney’s “Extraordinary,” Sofia Oxenham is no stranger to the spotlight. The series, a blend of humor, heart, and the supernatural, has not only won critical acclaim but has also become a fan favorite for its innovative storytelling and engaging performances. Oxenham’s portrayal of Carrie, a character graced with the ability to communicate with spirits, has been nothing short of mesmerizing. Her comic timing, coupled with a nuanced understanding of her character, has left audiences in stitches and critics raving.
INTERVIEWS
Adding to the excitement, the eagerly awaited second season began streaming on March 6th, bringing fans back into the extraordinary world that enthralled so many. With the new season underway, viewers can anticipate more of Oxenham’s exceptional performance as she continues to explore the depths of her character’s unique abilities, promising even more laughs, heartwarming moments, and supernatural intrigue.
In a candid conversation with DSCENE Magazine Editor Katarina Doric, Oxenham shares insights into her journey into acting, a path marked by persistence, passion, and the unwavering support of her family and friends. From her early days in junior school plays to the challenging auditions for RADA and the invaluable experiences that shaped her craft, Oxenham’s story is a testament to the power of determination and the magic of storytelling. Whether it’s reflecting on the significant role of Tess Tregidden in “Poldark” or talking about the preparation behind her character in “Extraordinary,” her reflections offer a glimpse into the dedication and creativity that define her career.
Tell us about the moment you realized you wanted to be an actress? Did you have any specific influences or experiences that solidified this decision for you? – It was at junior school when I started doing school plays. I loved the sense of collaboration and working as part of an ensemble. It was also a fantastic release from academic work. And my older brother is a talented actor and watching him and what he achieved really inspired me.
How supportive were your family and friends when you decided to pursue acting as a career? – My childhood friends do a range of different things and they are incredibly supportive. But honestly, when we hang out we don’t speak about acting too much. I think it’s really healthy to have friends like that. My family were amazing too and always encouraged me to keep trying and were especially supportive when things weren’t going to plan.
Try not to let the joy and love for the profession leave you when it’s not going the way that you hoped.
You showed persistence in applying to RADA multiple times. What kept you motivated during this challenging period, and what advice would you give to aspiring actors facing similar obstacles? – Thank you. I think holding onto why I wanted to do it and what it was I loved about it was key. And also by watching and seeing as many plays and films as I could to keep me inspired and learning. I think my advice would be to try not to let the joy and love for the profession leave you when it’s not going the way that you hoped. That spark adds so much. And to trust that things will often change for the better.
How did your experiences working as a runner on a film set and performing at children’s parties shape your approach to acting? – It deffo put me in some crazy situations which allowed me to be up for anything. It taught me to try and find humour no matter what the situation is and it made me grow up and gain some life experience which is always useful. The children’s parties in particular were hilarious and I remember that time with so much affection.
Your role as Tess Tregidden in “Poldark” was a significant part of your career. How did this role challenge you, and what did you learn from it? – I only had a few days filming experience before I took on Tess. So I didn’t really understand how a set worked. The rest of the cast and crew very kindly showed me the ropes and introduced me to all the lingo that’s used so I could grasp what was going on. I also tried to always be as prepared as possible and to be an easy person to have on set. Obviously it was significant as I come from Cornwall and the series had been an iconic one growing up. It was such a great experience overall.
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You mentioned that the scripts for “Extraordinary” were “fresh and different.” What aspects of the show’s writing and concept appealed to you the most? – I felt like I hadn’t heard a voice like Emma’s before. The humour just really appealed to me and made me laugh out loud. I loved how imaginative and bold the concept was of this world of normal people who each had a superpower. And each of the characters have a great arc and that felt quite unusual. I just knew as soon as I read the scripts it was something I wanted to be a part of.
One of the challenges I faced initially was doubting myself which was ironically what Carrie goes through all the time. But with help from our directors I worked through that and hopefully it can now be seen as part of Carrie’s innate personality.
In “Extraordinary,” you play Carrie, a character with the ability to communicate with spirits. How did you prepare for this unique role, and what challenges did you face in bringing this character to life? – We had a rehearsal period working with two incredible acting coaches and our director where a lot of the preparation happened. It varied from creating backstory, world-building, and building on who these people were before. In terms of the channeling work. I had zoom calls with the actors who did the voice over work of each character and watched how they spoke and moved and then built a character around that. One of the challenges I faced initially was doubting myself which was ironically what Carrie goes through all the time. But with help from our directors I worked through that and hopefully it can now be seen as part of Carrie’s innate personality.
“Extraordinary” is your first comedic role. How did you adapt your acting approach for this genre, and what did you enjoy most about exploring comedy? – I think understanding that the characters exist in this extreme world and so not worrying about making it too naturalistic but embracing their unique weirdness. Our directors really encouraged improvisation so that also enabled us to not be so precious about what we were doing.
Your portrayal of communicating beyond the grave in “Extraordinary” has been noted for its comic effect. How did you approach these scenes to balance the humor and the supernatural elements, and what has been the audience’s response to this aspect of your character? – I think the audience find it funny that Carrie who is the most reserved and straight of the characters has this power as often the people she channels are much larger than life and sometimes quite rude or naughty. Trying to channel the characters was a joy during filming and it helped a lot that everyone was so supportive.
What’s next for Sofia Oxenham? – Eeek…nothing I can speak about just yet. I am sorry!!
Extraordinary Season 2 is streaming from March 6 on Disney+.
I love this girl and this show 🥰